NLL Entry Draft: Hello, My Name Is...David Earl

While he's never played box lacrosse, David Earl is no stranger to physical indoor play. The Notre Dame midfielder grew up playing hockey in Connecticut and actually based his college decision about which sport to play based largely on wanting to go to a great academic school. When he visited South Bend and fell in love with the Golden Dome, and they offered him a lax ride, his decision was made. National Lacrosse League fans should be thankful for that, because Earl is one field specialist who should be able to make his mark in the NLL.

He's quickly becoming a convert to the indoor game before even starting to play it, he says. The past month I've been watching a ton of games on NLL.com, and the more I watch it the more I like it. I feel like I could eventually like it more than the outdoor game. I love hockey and it kind of reminds me of hockey. It brings the best of both games together.

Earl's two-way skills on the field should translate well into a transition role on the carpet. He's a good scorer and an excellent one-on-one defender who scoops a ton of ground balls. And after hearing often that Americans have a tough time adjusting to the league, he has a message for GMs. I tell them, hey, I'm half Canadian. His dad was born in Niagara Falls, Ontario and played for the New England Whalers in the WHA. He'd love to be a second-generation pro in North American arenas, but this time with boards and carpet over the ice.

David Earl

What do you feel your greatest asset is that would allow you to translate your game to the NLL?
My quickness along with my ability to play both ways very well.

One word to describe your game?
Explosive.

What role/position do you see yourself playing in the NLL?
I hope that I would have a big impact my first year. I would love to be able to step in, pick up the game quickly, and help my team be successful. I feel I have the potential to step right in and help my team win some games.

What current or former NLLer would you most closely compare or model your game after?
I've only been compared once to an NLL player and it was Kevin Buchanan. I was told I dodge and move similar to the way he does. We are both lefties as well.

Your greatest accomplishment during your lacrosse career?
Getting to the finals and coming within one goal of a national championship my junior year at Notre Dame was a huge accomplishment for myself and also for Notre Dame Lacrosse so I was very proud of that. It was also a very special moment for me my senior year when I was voted captain by my teammates and coaches.